You’ve undoubtedly heard of the famous Hollywood sign, and the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame. So it should come as no surprise that Los Angeles is home to many historic landmarks and neighborhoods. You’ll learn about one of LA’s most popular National Historic Landmark Districts on LA Inside & Out‘s Little Tokyo immersion tour.

Established in 1884, Little Tokyo is the second oldest neighborhood in Los Angeles, and one of California’s three remaining Japantowns. Known as LA’s Japanese cultural center, Little Tokyo is comprised of many businesses, places of worship, museums, and monuments, each holding a special place in the community.

During this 90-minute walking tour, you’ll quickly discover the many layers that make up Little Tokyo, and the contributions of multiple generations of residents that have made Little Tokyo the sustainable community it is today. You’ll learn how through advocacy, the new generation of leaders have joined forces to preserve the legacy of what is one of the city’s most notable culturally-specific neighborhoods. You’ll also hear about the multiethnic ties that contribute to making the neighborhood thrive. The birthplace of the Pentecostal movement, Little Tokyo has strong ties to the African American and Hispanic communities.

You’ll get to see a sacred, 150-year-old grapefruit tree that still bears fruit, a symbolic testament to the resilience of the community. And in addition to learning more about past and present Japanese culture, you’ll also take time to indulge in a treat during a stop at Fugetsu-Do Sweet Shop—the oldest operating business in Little Tokyo!

LA Inside & Out tours are half-day immersion experiences where you’ll actively participate in a journey into dynamic LA neighborhoods where real changework is happening, and be inspired by what you learn to create real change in your community, too.

To sign up for this LA Inside & Out tour, check the box beside Little Tokyo when you register for Upswell.

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Tamieka Briscoe is an associate at Independent Sector.